Trunyan Village sits on the eastern shore of Lake Batur. It lies in Bangli Regency. This ancient village belongs to the Bali Aga people. Indeed, they are Bali’s first people. So Trunyan Village follows a striking custom. Instead, locals place the dead beneath a fragrant tree. They do not bury or cremate the body. As a result, this unique custom makes Trunyan Village one of Bali’s most fascinating sites. Overall, a visit here reveals beliefs that still guide daily life today.
What Is Trunyan Village? A Bali Aga Heritage Site
Trunyan Village is home to the Bali Aga. Indeed, they are Bali’s first people. Their roots go back before Hindu came to the island. So the village keeps old rituals that differ from common Balinese Hindu practice. Also, many travelers know the site by another name: Skull Island. That is because skulls and bones rest openly near the burial ground. So Trunyan Village offers a rare look into ancient Balinese culture.
The History Behind Trunyan Village
Local legend explains the origin of Trunyan Village. Specifically, the story starts with a king from the Surakarta kingdom in Java. He had four children. One day, they noticed a mysterious fragrance in the air. So the siblings set out to find its source. After a long journey, they reached Bali. Eventually, they arrived at the slopes of Mount Batur.
First, the youngest child settled near the mountain. Later, she became known as Ratu Ayu Mas Maketeg. Meanwhile, another sibling left the group to meditate. He took the name Ratu Sakti Sang Hyang Jero. Then, the remaining brothers walked on toward Lake Batur. Along the way, they met a beautiful woman. Finally, the eldest brother reached a fragrant tree. Locals call this tree Taru Menyan. There, he earned the title Ratu Sakti Pancering Jagat. Today, villagers honor him as the highest deity of Trunyan Village.
When Ratu Sakti Pancering Jagat passed away, villagers placed his body beneath that same tree. In fact, “Taru” means tree. “Menyan” means fragrant. Together, they form the name Trunyan. This old story still shapes the spirit of Trunyan Village today.
How to Get to Trunyan
Trunyan Village sits in Kintamani District. Specifically, it rests on the eastern shore of Lake Batur. The trip from central Bali takes about two hours by car. But if you start from Kintamani itself, the drive only takes 40 minutes.
Once you reach Kedisan Village, you must board a traditional boat. Indeed, this boat ride is the only way to reach the cemetery area of Trunyan Village. First, follow jalan Penelokan. Then, turn left onto jalan Windu Sara near the Lake Batur Indomaret intersection. There, you will find the harbor.
Most visitors land in Bali through Ngurah Rai International Airport. So a smooth transfer makes the trip much easier. A private Bali Airport Transfer service can take you straight toward Kintamani. This way, you skip the stress of unfamiliar roads. Many travelers also choose a car with a driver for the full route. The roads near Lake Batur wind steeply through the highlands, so local driving experience helps a lot.
Unique Attractions Inside Trunyan
Trunyan Village offers more than its burial tradition alone. Indeed, it holds several attractions worth a closer look. From ancient rituals to sweeping lake views, every corner tells part of its story.
The Sky Burial and Taru Menyan Tree
The open-air burial site defines Trunyan Village. Specifically, villagers place each body under the Taru Menyan tree. First, they cover it with white cloth. Then, they fence it with woven bamboo. Notably, the tree gives off a natural scent. This scent hides any smell from the body. As a result, the burial ground stays clean and free of bad smells.
Funeral Rules at Trunyan
Not every villager can rest beneath the sacred tree. Specifically, the deceased must have died of natural causes. Also, they must have been married. Furthermore, their body must remain whole. In addition, the site can hold only eleven bodies at once. Together, these rules keep the old custom alive across many years.
Pura Pancering Jagat Temple
Trunyan Village also holds the sacred Pura Pancering Jagat temple. Notably, every two years, the temple hosts the Barong Brutuk dance. This happens during the Ngusaba Kapat feast. Since the dance is rare to see, it gives a special look into Bali Aga spiritual life.
Lake Batur Scenery
The boat ride to Trunyan crosses Lake Batur. Indeed, this crossing delivers stunning views on its own. The lake’s bluish-green water contrasts beautifully against the volcanic hills nearby. So even travelers who simply love scenery will enjoy the ride.
Opening Hours, Prices, and Facilities
The Trunyan Village technically stays open all day. However, the boat service runs only during certain hours. Here is what to expect before you go.
Opening Hours
The site itself never closes. But boat transport runs from 08:00 to 17:00 WITA. So plan your visit within this window to guarantee access across the lake.
Ticket Prices
- Entrance to the village: free
- Traditional boat rental: around IDR 725,000 for four people
- Motorboat rental: around IDR 925,000 for four people
Facilities
This village offers basic facilities. Specifically, you will find public toilets and a few local food stalls. These stalls sell simple Balinese dishes. So the amenities stay simple, but they cover the essentials for a short visit.
Tips for Visiting Trunyan Village Safely
A visit to Trunyan Village can feel overwhelming without the right prep. So keep these tips in mind. First, hire a licensed local guide before you board any boat. Some boat owners try to charge tourists too much. Second, agree on the boat fare clearly before you depart. This step avoids confusion later. Third, wear a sarong or modest clothing. The burial ground is a sacred site, so it deserves respect. Finally, set aside 30 to 60 minutes for your visit. This gives you enough time to explore the cemetery and temple without rushing.
Plan Your Trunyan Village Tour With Bali Touristic
A trip to Trunyan Village becomes far easier with local support. Our Bali Tour Packages include guided trips to Trunyan. They also cover other highlights around the Kintamani highlands. So you can explore with ease and skip the logistics headache. Want to learn more about Bali’s old culture? Our Bali Heritage Tour in Bali Aga pairs well with a Trunyan Village visit. Both trips show off the island’s roots before Hindu came. Simply message us on WhatsApp to plan your trip. Our skilled drivers will handle the rest.
Questions About Trunyan Village
What is special about Trunyan Village?
Trunyan Village stands out for its open-air burial tradition. Specifically, villagers place bodies beneath the Taru Menyan tree instead of cremating them. As a result, the tree naturally neutralizes any odor.
How do I get to Trunyan?
First, drive to Kedisan Village near Lake Batur. Then board a traditional boat. The boat will take you across the lake to the cemetery area.
What are the funeral rules at Trunyan?
The deceased must have died naturally. Also, they must have been married. Furthermore, their body must remain complete. In total, the site holds a maximum of eleven bodies at once.
When is the best time to visit Trunyan?
Morning is the best time to visit Trunyan Village. Specifically, boat service runs from 08:00 to 17:00 WITA. Also, mornings tend to feel cooler and less crowded.
How long should I spend at Trunyan?
Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes at the site. This time covers the cemetery, the temple, and the surrounding area.
Is Trunyan Village safe to visit?
Trunyan Village is generally safe. Still, hire a licensed guide and agree on boat fares in advance. This step helps you avoid common tourist scams.
What is the best way to explore Bali beyond Trunyan Village?
Renting a car with a driver gives you the most flexibility. A Bali Rent a Car with Driver connects you with a knowledgeable local driver. They can guide you to remote spots like Trunyan Village and beyond.
